The Issue

Since the early 90s, the teen birth rate in South Carolina has fallen by 61% - a remarkable decline and one that should be celebrated. Rates have declined among all ages, all races, and in all 46 counties.

K-12 Educators

Making the Case

In 2015, 40% of high school students reported having sex.1 Nine out of 10 South Carolina registered voters think comprehensive sexuality education should be taught in public schools.2

South Carolina law requires comprehensive sex education in public schools.

South Carolina passed the Comprehensive Health Education Act (CHEA) in 1988 to ensure that students receive an age-appropriate, comprehensive education program. This law stresses local control of content—meaning each district must use a 13 member committee, appointed by the district, to assist in the selection of instruction materials.

What material is required to be taught?

Grade Level

Required Material

K-5

Community Health

Nutrition

Personal and dental health

Growth and development

Accident prevention

6-8

Elementary school curriculum above, plus:

Reproductive health and STI information (abstinence until marriage must be emphasized as the best and first choice for all youth)

Mental and emotional health

Substance abuse

Environmental health

9-12

Reproductive health (abstinence until marriage must be emphasized as the first and best choice for all youth)

Pregnancy prevention (contraception education must be given in the context of future, marriage-based family planning)

I’m a teacher. What am I NOT allowed to do and say when teaching comprehensive sex education?

The CHEA includes several restrictions for instruction. If you are a teacher or school administrator, you cannot: